In this commemorative feature, GYANG BERE reflects on Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s three years in office, highlighting the administration’s achievements in security, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, transportation, education and tourism, while presenting the governor’s leadership style as one anchored on service, inclusiveness and purposeful governance
A timeless Plateau proverb wisely states that, “When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.” This aptly reflects the emergence of a leader deeply rooted across communities through shared identity, active listening and proven problem-solving.
This ushered in the people’s servant, a leader distinguished not merely by promises but by a clear vision anchored on servant leadership, transparency and unwavering commitment to the people.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang stepped into office with a profound sense of duty, armed not only with political acumen but also with a rare blend of selflessness, character and composure. His assumption of office three years ago stands as a testament to purposeful governance, marked by responsibility and guided by integrity, capacity and disciplined focus to deliver lasting impact.
From the outset, Governor Mutfwang placed the wholistic development of Plateau State above distractions and trivialities. As the proverb reminds us, “Little by little, the bird builds its nest,” his administration adopted a steady, deliberate and results-driven approach, anchored on Three Pillars Policy.
Rather than engage in blame or political recrimination, he moved decisively to restore the image and dignity of the state at both national and international levels, ushering in renewed trust, confidence and collective pride. Through courageous leadership, he has fostered a responsive and inclusive governance system that prioritises the needs of the people and strengthens the social contract between government and citizens.
Security, civil service, economic revival
Undeterred and inspired by the mantra, ‘The Time Is Now’, Governor Mutfwang confronted security challenges with decisive action. His administration revitalised community policing structures, reactivated Operation Rainbow for intelligence gathering and rapid response, recruited, trained and mobilised over 1,500 community volunteers and introduced modern surveillance technology, including drones and CCTV cameras, to enhance security operations within the state capital and rural communities.
The recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards, approved by President Tinubu, is at an advanced stage, further strengthening the state’s security architecture. The administration has also prioritised the welfare and resettlement of affected communities.
To restore public sector efficiency, the administration revitalised the civil service through prompt salary payments and consistent promotions. Gratuities and death benefits were increased by 100 per cent, while the payment of pensions dating back to 1984 has reached an advanced stage, reinforcing staff welfare. Government offices have also been reconnected to reliable power supply, improving productivity and restoring confidence in the civil service.
In transportation, the introduction of 30 brand-new Tin City Metro buses has eased and transformed commuting. The subsidised transport system has enabled citizens to save between ₦50,000 and ₦60,000 monthly while improving mobility and economic activity. The administration has also revived and improved on Rail and Air transportation to boost economic activities.
Within three years, the administration has invested heavily in agriculture. Over ₦20 billion worth of fertilisers and agricultural inputs have been distributed, alongside improved seedlings of potatoes, wheat, maize and rice. More than 50 tractors have been procured through ACReSAL for agricultural mechanisation, while over 1,500 hectares of land have been reclaimed for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The livestock sector has also been strengthened with modern abattoir equipment and Special Agro-Processing Zones in Heipang, Mangu and Shendam.
Massive infrastructure, education, healthcare development
In infrastructure, Plateau State has recorded one of its most ambitious development programmes. From the busy streets of Jos to the quiet farmlands of Shendam, new roads are opening pathways to opportunities, rekindling hope and connecting communities together.
Currently, about 500 kilometres of roads have been completed with asphalt, while over 2,000 kilometres are ongoing across more than 50 roads under different agencies in the state.
In the Northern Zone, key projects include the Utonkon–Nunku–Keana Road with a flyover bridge, the Europharm–Zarmaganda–Mazaram Road, Government House Layout roads, Tudun Wada-Kabong, Jebbu Miango and Angware Road in Jos East.
The Central Zone has projects such as the Mangu–Bwai–Mushu Road, Panyam Fish Farm Road, Gindiri-Ampang West, Langai and Langkang–Dis–Kagu–Sihin roads, among others, while the Southern Zone includes the Shendam-Langtang South Road, Mikang and Quan’Pan feeder roads, as well as bridge construction at Sabongida-Mikang, among several others.
In education, 397 classrooms have been constructed, 557 renovated, 33 boreholes drilled and furniture supplied across schools through SUBEB and AGILE.
Under the Mutfwang Legacy Scholarship Scheme, 200 students are currently studying in India and 10 in the United States of America. Tuition fees in state-owned institutions have been reduced by 50 per cent, alongside increased scholarships and programme accreditation.
In healthcare, the Plateau State Specialist Hospital has been upgraded with modern laboratories, while 20 consultants and five physiotherapists have been employed. Ultrasound machines have also been supplied to 17 general hospitals, with major hospitals undergoing renovation.
The Plateau State Drug and Medical Commodity Agency has also been established. Through the Mutfwang Care Initiative, over 319,429 vulnerable citizens have accessed healthcare services through PLASCHEMA, while 82 primary healthcare centres have been renovated and solar-powered.
Tourism revival, growing political confidence
Tourism has equally witnessed revitalisation. Jos Wildlife Park, Mado Tourist Village and Solomon Lar Amusement Park have been modernised. The remodeling of Hill Station and Plateau Hotels have reached an advanced stage, while festivals such as the Jos Family Christmas Festival and Plateau Unity Christmas Carol Festival continue to boost religious and cultural tourism, supported by a UNDP Tourism Master Plan.
Plateau State remains renowned for its breathtaking landscape, pleasant climate and enduring culture of tolerance, hospitality and peaceful coexistence. Under Governor Mutfwang, the state is steadily reclaiming its identity as the ‘Home of Peace and Tourism’ while promoting its rich tradition of accommodating visitors.
Three years ago, Plateau chose hope, trust and purposeful leadership. Today, that confidence appears justified. Governor Caleb Mutfwang, honoured as The Sun Newspaper Governor of the Year 2024 and Silverbird Governor of the Year 2025, has demonstrated that responsive, transparent and compassionate governance is achievable.
In last week’s APC gubernatorial primary election, party stalwarts and members from across the 17 local government areas queued under the sun and voted overwhelmingly for Governor Mutfwang to emerge as the party’s candidate for the 2027 general election. The result reflected growing confidence in his leadership style and vision for Plateau State.
In his reaction, the governor expressed deep gratitude and humility, describing the outcome as a renewed call to service rather than a personal triumph.
He said the victory belonged to party faithful, supporters, stakeholders, youth, women, elders and volunteers who worked for the success of the exercise, adding that it strengthened his belief in the collective destiny of Plateau people.
Through inclusive leadership and steady reforms, Governor Mutfwang continues to unite the people, strengthen peace and inspire a collective vision for a more prosperous Plateau State.
No doubt, built on these formidable foundations, the future of Plateau State appears brighter as the promises of God.
Dr Bere, PhD, is the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Plateau State Governor